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Trujillo studied environmental studies and biology at the College and was pursuing his PhD at the University of California, Berkeley. His vibrant spirit, passion for learning, and dedication to nature, culture, and science left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. 

“Gabe cared so deeply for all his friends; it was easy to tell from the way his eyes lit up talking about each of them,” Steph Reuse ’17, a former classmate and friend of Trujillo, said. “He had a way of making his friends always feel special, cherished, and supported.” 

One of Reuse’s most cherished memories with Trujillo was their senior seminar trip to New Orleans in the spring of 2016. In the city, Trujillo struck up conversations with locals, always making sure Reuse—who was more introverted—felt included. 

“We were having so much fun our final day in New Orleans that we lost track of time, and if it hadn’t been for Gabe’s quick thinking and navigation skills, we would have missed the important class dinner that evening,” Reuse said. “I’ll never forget that adventure as long as I live.”

While at the College, Trujillo studied at the Quaker Meeting House in Monteverde, Costa Rica, where the words, “Strength without domination; courage without arrogance; love without possessiveness; gentleness without weakness,” are inscribed. Glenn Adelson, Associate Professor of Environmental Studies, says those words describe Trujillo as well as any he can think of.

Adelson taught Trujillo in several classes while he was at the College. In his first year, Trujillo took two of Adelson’s classes in which he was the only first-year student, including one 300-level course. 

“Gabe's courage was manifest from the moment he stepped foot on campus,” Adelson said. “He was strong, yet gentle—a student-athlete who could melt you with his smile. Everyone who met him loved him. I will always remember Gabe, though, as that first-year student who was not to be deterred from taking the courses that he knew he wanted, and he knew he wanted them because of his thirst for knowledge.” 

The Gabriel “Gabe” Trujillo ’16 Annual Scholarship for the 2024–25 academic year will make a tangible impact on the receiving student’s life by providing financial support in the pursuit of their degree. Should the College surpass our fundraising goal, we aim to fund an additional annual scholarship, install a commemorative bench, and plant a tree on campus in Trujillo’s name and honor. 

To donate in support of this scholarship and Trujillo’s memory, visit the Gabriel “Gabe”  Trujillo ’16 Memorial Fund page or contact Marianne Riddell, Director of Annual Engagement, at 847-735-6029 for more information.